Thailand has been one of the most popular destinations for Indians to visit over recent years due to its visa-free regime. However, according to the Department of Consular Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
the for India and many other countries on 19 May 2026. The Thailand visa revisions will come into effect 15 days after the changes are published in the Royal Gazette. Under the new rules, India will be shifted to the visa-on-arrival category.
Recent Updates for Thailand Visa for Indians
- Thailand is planning to end the 60-day visa-free stay for Indian travellers
- Indians will need a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or e-Visa to enter Thailand
- The change is part of Thailand's new
"one country, one Thai visa exemption privilege" policy
- Thai authorities are tightening entry rules to prevent misuse of long visa-free stays
- Travellers may face shorter permitted stays and stricter immigration checks in the future
Thailand has announced major changes to its visa policy for several countries, including India. Earlier, Indian passport holders could visit Thailand without a and stay for up to 60 days for tourism purposes. This made travel simpler and more affordable for Indian tourists. However, Thailand is now reviewing this relaxation and may replace it with an e-Visa system or on arrival visa for Indians.
The decision comes under Thailand's new
"one country, one Thai visa exemption privilege" approach. Under this policy, each country will receive only one main visa benefit category instead of multiple entry privileges.
Old vs New Thai Visa for Indians at a Glance
|
Earlier System for Indians (Until the Gazette Date) |
Updated / Proposed System (After the Gazette Date) |
| Up to 60 days stay without a visa | Offers Visa on Arrival instead |
| Visitors were allowed to extend their stay in some cases | Extensions could be more limited going forward |
| Visa-free entry mainly suited long holidays and remote work stays | Authorities focus more on short-term tourism visits |
| Entry process involved minimal documentation | Travellers may need stronger travel proof and verification |
| Most tourists entered directly under the visa exemption | More travellers may be shifted to the VoA or e-Visa channels |
Why is Thailand Ending the 60-Day Free Visa for Indians?
Thailand started the visa-free regime in 2024 to boost tourism and invite more travellers to the country. However, it is reviewing its 60-day visa-free policy after authorities noticed an increase in travellers using long tourist stays for purposes beyond tourism, such as remote work and extended living.
The government also wants tighter immigration checks and a more uniform visa system across countries to reduce the confusion about the visa schemes. The officials stated that the new changes are being made to ensure they are better suited to the economy and national security, following an increase in the number of foreigners arrested in Thailand.
Which Other Countries are Affected by the New Visa Rules?
Thailand's updated visa policy changes are not limited to India. Several countries that earlier enjoyed relaxed entry rules may also see shorter visa-free stays, stricter immigration checks or changes in Thailand Visa on Arrival access.
Countries With Major Visa Changes
- India - Shifted to the Visa on Arrival category
- Seychelles - Visa-free stay reduced to 15 days
- Maldives - Visa-free stay reduced to 15 days
- Mauritius - Visa-free stay reduced to 15 days
Countries that Remain Unaffected
- China - 30-day bilateral agreement
- Russia - 30-day bilateral agreement
- South Korea - 90-day bilateral agreement
- Kazakhstan - 30-day bilateral agreement
- Brazil and Argentina - 90-day bilateral agreement
What Does it Mean for Travellers Already in Thailand?
Travellers already in Thailand under the current visa-free rules are generally expected to continue following the entry conditions granted at the time of arrival. Thailand's revised visa measures will apply mainly to new entries once an official implementation date is announced in the Royal Gazette.
Visitors planning to apply for an extension may also face changes in the eligibility criteria or fulfil new visa requirements under the new system. However, visitors should monitor changes on the official or get in touch with the immigration authorities.
How Does the Change Affect Indian Travellers in the Future?
The upcoming visa changes are not expected to make travels to Thailand difficult for Indian tourists. Indians are still expected to remain eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), which means travelling to Thailand will continue to be convenient for short holidays, family trips and leisure travel. The main difference is that travellers may need to complete a few additional entry formalities instead of entering completely visa-free.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Visa on Arrival & Thailand Trip
- Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your date of travel
- Carry a copy of confirmed return flight tickets and hotel bookings
- Have two colour photographs (35mm x 45mm) ready for immigration and VoA
- Carry proof of sufficient funds (bank statements) for your entire trip to Thailand (₹20,000/person)
- Apply for an e-Visa in advance if available, to reduce airport waiting time
- Get covering medical emergencies, flight delays, baggage loss, etc., for your entire group
- Do not overstay beyond your permitted visa duration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Thailand visa-free for Indians in May 2026?
No. The Thai Cabinet announced on 19th May 2026 that India is no longer eligible for the 60-day visa-free stay. Indians will now be eligible for a visa on arrival or an e-visa.
Do Indians need TDAC for Thailand?
Yes. Indian travellers must complete the before entering Thailand, regardless of whether they travel with a VoA or through an e-Visa. The TDAC is mandatory for all foreign travellers.
What is the entry fee for Thailand in 2026?
For Indian travellers using the Visa on Arrival facility, the current VoA fee is around 3,000 Thai Baht for a single-entry tourist visa and 13,500 Thai Baht for a multiple-entry tourist visa.
Note: The visa fees are subject to change. Please refer to the for the latest updates.
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